Infrared Metasurface Optics Scientist

Leidos LLC; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 108,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos Defense Space seeks an Optical Materials Scientist to develop tunable optical metasurfaces for multi-spectral sensing on next-generation space missions. You will work at the intersection of optical simulation, nanofabrication, and laboratory experimentation to push the boundaries of space-based sensing.

The role emphasizes full-wave modeling, performance simulation, fabrication planning, and experimental validation, with close collaboration to senior engineers and multidisciplinary teams

Qualifications

• BS in Physics, Materials Science, Optics, or related field with 8+ years of experience or MS with 6+ years; Doctorate optional.
• US citizenship with ability to obtain DoD Secret clearance.
• Experience in optical and infrared materials research or development.
• Proficiency with full-wave EM modeling software (HFSS, COMSOL, or Lumerical).
• Deep knowledge of infrared/optical properties of materials, metamaterials, and metasurfaces.
• Experience with infrared detector technology.
• Experience with optimization methods including adjoint gradient descent and topology optimization.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-wave electromagnetic modeling of tunable infrared metasurfaces.
• Develop models to assess impact of tunable filters on sensor performance.
• Plan fabrication methods for optimized optical designs.
• Design laboratory validation plans and compare to data.
• Collaborate with senior engineers and multidisciplinary teams.
• Analyze experimental data and document results for IR&D milestones.

Skills

Full-wave modeling

Optimization methods

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

BS in Physics/Materials Science/Optics

MS in related field

Doctorate (optional)

Tools

Python

MATLAB

C++

HFSS

COMSOL

Lumerical

Job description

Leidos Defense Space seeks an Optical Materials Scientist to develop tunable optical metasurfaces for multi-spectral sensing on next-generation space missions. You will work at the intersection of optical simulation, nanofabrication, and laboratory experimentation to push the boundaries of space-based sensing.

The role emphasizes full-wave modeling, performance simulation, fabrication planning, and experimental validation, with close collaboration to senior engineers and multidisciplinary teams